Emergency Co-Responder

Job Description

JOB TITLE: EMERGENCY CO-RESPONDER

DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULL-TIME/NON-EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION: NON-UNION

The Emergency Co-Responder provides on-scene crisis intervention for behavioral health emergencies, including those with substance use disorders, opioid-related crises, and co-occurring mental health conditions. The Co-Responder aims to divert individuals from the criminal justice system and unnecessary emergency department visits by connecting them to appropriate behavioral health and substance use treatment services. The Co-Responder also facilitates training for police officers to increase competencies in intervening with a behavioral health crisis.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service. A pay incentive is available for bilingual employees!

Responsibilities

• Provide rapid crisis intervention and assessment to individuals experiencing mental health or substance use-related crises, on an as needed basis; Utilizes de-escalation techniques, harm reduction strategies, and supportive counseling to intervene with individuals/families in a behavioral health crisis.
• Work in collaboration with police to ensure that persons with behavioral health needs are appropriately diverted from the criminal justice system and referred for appropriate behavioral health services.
• Provides information, referral, and outreach services on topics such as shelter, food, employment, substance abuse, opiod and other drug abuse, and health services access.
• Provide face to face or telephonic follow-up with persons served when clinically indicated
• Accompany police officers on patrol as allowed by officer in charge
• Work in collaboration with the Emergency Services team to divert unnecessary emergency department visits
• Provide and/or coordinate training to police personnel regarding behavioral health, substance use, trauma spectrum disorders, and other behavioral health topics as identified
• Compile and submit monthly statistics
• Act as primary liaison between mental health community providers and law enforcement
• Establish and maintain regularly scheduled, and as needed, contact with the court clinicians to optimize appropriate dispositions and outcomes
• Establish and maintain regularly scheduled community police collaborative meetings of all stakeholders and community providers
• Performs other related duties as assigned or required.
  
  

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in social work, psychology, or closely related field is required;
• Clinical Licensure (LCSW, LMHC, LICSW) preferred but not required.
• Must have previous outreach based clinical experience, preferably within psychiatric emergency services
• Minimum of one year experience in a crisis intervention setting or related field placement in crisis intervention setting to gain strong clinical and crisis intervention skills
• Valid Driver’s License, Class D
• Knowledge of opioid use disorder treatment, harm reduction principles, and community-based recovery resources
• Experience within the criminal justice or corrections system to develop an ability to remain calm and use sound clinical judgment in crisis situations
• First Aid, CPR and defibrillator certification preferred but not required at time of hire
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills; ability to engage with the public and colleagues with confidence and professionalism, even in high-pressure situations.
• Proficient computer skills, including use of various software programs unique to the public health department as well as Microsoft office 365 and virtual meeting programs.
  
  

WORKING CONDITIONS(The characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

Work is often performed under varying field conditions including at home visits, calls for emergencies, etc. May have access to an extensive amount of confidential/personal information about clients and their families. Regular documentation of interactions is required. Incumbent works a 4 on, 2 off schedule, mirroring police officer schedule, at 37.5 hours per week.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS(The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, use hand to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, climb, or balance, to kneel, crouch or crawl. Use of a City-owned vehicle shall be required for responding to calls for emergencies and follow-up field/home visits. Must lift/push/pull up to 10lbs.

HOURS

Incumbent works a 4 on, 2 off schedule, mirroring police officer schedule, at 37.5 hours per week.

SALARY

Starting rate $29.33 - $31.11 an hour

Annual increase up to 38.26 an hour

Application Deadline

Thursday, April 17, 2025 @ 4:00PM

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement